In short: The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is the Spanish identification and tax number for foreigners. Without an NIE you cannot buy property in Spain, open a bank account or sign at the notary. You apply with form EX-15 at the Policía Nacional in Spain or at a Spanish consulate. The fee is around €10–12. Allow 2 to 8 weeks.
What do you need an NIE for when buying property?
- The arras (preliminary) contract and the deed at the notary
- A Spanish bank account and transfers
- Paying transfer tax (ITP) or VAT (IVA)
- Registering the property in the land registry
- Electricity and water contracts and annual taxes (IBI, non-resident tax)
Where can I apply for an NIE?
| Route | Where | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| In Spain | Policía Nacional / Oficina de Extranjería, with an online appointment (cita previa) | Appointments in the province of Alicante are often scarce: book early. |
| From your home country | Spanish consulate | In person and by appointment. The NIE usually arrives by email. |
| By power of attorney | A lawyer or gestor in Spain | Notarised power of attorney with apostille and sworn Spanish translation. |
Which documents do I need?
- Form EX-15, completed in Spanish and signed
- Passport or national ID card (original and copy)
- Proof of the reason, e.g. a reservation or arras contract
- Proof of payment of the fee (form 790, code 012)
- Depending on the office: passport photo or proof of address (at the consulate)
Common mistakes
- Applying too late: you should have the NIE before signing the arras contract.
- Filling in the form in English or leaving gaps.
- Not proving the reason (the “motivo” field).
- Confusing the NIE with residency: the NIE is not a residence permit.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get an NIE?
Between 2 and 8 weeks, depending on the place and appointment availability. In Spain the NIE is often issued at the appointment or a few days later.
Does the NIE expire?
The number stays the same for life. Only the paper certificate carries a date, and some banks or notaries ask for a recent one.
Does my partner also need an NIE?
Yes. If both of you appear as owners on the deed, each of you needs your own NIE.
Can Schaich Immobilien help with the NIE?
Yes. We help our buyers with the appointment and the paperwork. With a notarised power of attorney, a gestor can also apply without you being present.
Read next: Buying Property on the Costa Blanca in 2027: Costs, Process and Checklist · Notary appointment: which documents do buyers and sellers need?
Schaich Immobilien S.L.U. is a licensed real estate agency (API, RAICV 1553) in Els Poblets near Dénia, helping international buyers since 1990. Contact us without obligation.
As of November 2026. Fees and procedures may vary by office. This article is not legal advice.